Converting CMYK to RGB and HEX

To convert CMYK to RGB and hex, open the CMYK converter, set the four CMYK percentages, and read the matching RGB and hex values. To go the other way, paste a hex or rgb() color and the CMYK percentages appear.

How CMYK and RGB differ

RGB is an additive model. Screens start from black and add red, green and blue light to build color, so all three at full strength make white.

CMYK is a subtractive model. Printing starts from white paper and lays down cyan, magenta, yellow and black ink, each one removing light. More ink means a darker result, and all of them together would muddy toward a dull near-black, which is why the separate black plate exists.

What the K really does

The key plate is black ink. In theory cyan, magenta and yellow together make black, but in practice they make a murky brown and waste a lot of ink. Adding a dedicated black plate gives crisp text, deep shadows and cleaner dark tones, so almost all printing uses it.

Why the numbers are a starting point

The converter uses a standard, device-independent formula. Real print output depends on the paper, the inks and the print profile your shop uses, so the same CMYK values can look different on glossy stock versus uncoated stock.

Treat the conversion as a reliable starting point, then confirm critical colors with a proof from your printer. For screen work, the HEX to RGB converter and the color picker cover the formats you need without the print caveats.